There is definitely no shortage of strong female characters in Game of Thrones. Leading the pack would be Daenerys Targaryan but not far behind is Arya Stark, the youngest daughter of the unfortunate Stark clan.

(*SPOILER ALERT*) At a very young age, she was separated from her family and was left to fend for her own. She was forced on a journey that entailed an impossible amount of courage and strength, yet she is still one of the few characters who have survived until the fifth season. But even when she was still with her family, she didn't let the stereotypical notion of womanhood get in her way.

At the time when being a lady meant sewing, wearing pretty dresses, and supporting the men in their lives, she made it clear that a woman wasn't and shouldn’t be defined by all of those things. She showed everyone, even at such a young age, that being a lady means being independent, tough, and smart as well. She wasn't scared to play with boys, get dirty, and defend herself and her family when necessary. She even learned how to fight with her trusty sword, which was a smart decision if I say so myself. Despite the tough and determined attitude, Arya’s character is still able to convey compassion. It's clear in every episode that even though she will do anything to survive, she still knows what's right from wrong.

But the actress behind Arya is equally as strong and determined. Maisie Williams, believe it or not, is only 17. In 2011, she got her first acting job as the orphaned Stark and just like her spunky character, Maisie had to grow up quickly too. Thanks to the hit show she’s starring in, she had to “be an adult” at age 12 which could be why she’s so mature, grounded, and wise for her age. She wouldn’t call herself famous per se but she’s aware of the influence she has which is why she uses it for good by spreading awareness about certain issues. She’s a self-proclaimed feminist and even criticized Emma Watson’s He for She speech for highlighting “first world feminism.” Some may say that what she did was completely the opposite of feminism but she did make a point. But gender equality isn’t the only topic she’s shed some light on. She also fights against breast cancer and cyber bullies. In fact, she’s going to be starring in a new show that talks about cyber bullying after experiencing it herself a few years back. Despite being a busy actress with big responsibilities on her shoulders, she doesn’t forget to be a fun teenager. She still loves going to parties, shopping, and making entertaining Vines. I think we also have to give her props for being confident and brave when it comes to her fashion choices considering people love to criticize anything young celebrities do nowadays.

You might be thinking, “there are so many other feminists who are more active than Maisie so why should we look up to her?” It’s true that are other feminists who’ve contributed or done more but Maisie’s doing something that everyone should do as well. She’s starting the change from herself. She might not be out there making speeches about gender equality but she promotes it in her everyday life. She doesn’t keep quiet about the issues that surround us today by standing her ground and sharing smart opinions on subjects that matter. Although there are many other inspiring female role models, the smart and passionate Maisie should still be considered an inspiration.